DLMS Direct Connect - Innovative, secure and interoperable functionality for Power Line Carrier based infrastructures.Power Line Carrier (PLC) based systems are proving an attractive and cost-effective solution for Smart Metering deployments in the residential domain. In Europe, PLC solutions have already been implemented widely in some countries, while others are at an advanced stage of planning for large-scale roll-out. While typical approaches to PLC-based Smart Meter Systems are identical, there are differences in the underlying technology employed in each market – namely in respect of the physical modulation of and access to the carrier signal itself. In this paper, Elster elaborates on the different elements that require attention within a PLC-based Smart Metering infrastructure, and presents the DLMS Direct Connect concept as a technology enhancement to conventional Data Concentrators that will resolve several of the key challenges posed by current Smart Metering architectures.

Elster When it comes to the many components of your smart grid solution, there are plenty of options from which to choose. But when it comes to a solution that includes the vital connections you need to achieve the highest possible value from your meter data – and the people and business processes enabled by it – there is only one choice that makes sense.